Ready to Have Implants Removed - Valencia, CA

Following a relationship breakup in 2001, I...

3 May 2012

Following a relationship breakup in 2001, I decided that implants would give me the confidence that I lacked. The surgery was performed by a doctor in Australia. I had small perky B cups. I told the surgeon I wanted to be a small C cup (or just a C). The surgeon advised that I probably wouldn’t be happy with a small C and would probably have to spend more money and come back for more surgery. He suggested a full C. I went with my surgeon’s advice and had saline tear drop implants inserted above the muscle via incisions below the breast. I can't remember the size recommended by the surgeon. When I came out of surgery I thought OMG! They are huge. When I had my first follow up and said they were huge, the surgeon told me they would settle that I was still swollen from the surgery. Eleven years later I am still waiting for them to settle I am a DD.

I enjoy exercising and just feel these breasts are not me. I don't like how I look in clothes and feel like I am always trying to cover up. I have had no problems with the implants, however have had some slight rippling in the left breast that is not visible, but I can feel it. They make me look bigger than what I really am and I find myself longing for my small B Cups. I have had a consultation with a surgeon in Marina Del Ray, total cost including his fee, Operating Room and Anesthesia is $7,500! Wow that’s almost how much I paid to have the breast implants in the first place. I am now looking for another surgeon in the LA area and hopefully have found one in Valencia after reading someone’s blog on this site. If anyone has any recommendations I would be grateful! I am a little worried about how my breasts will look after the surgery. I breastfed my daughter with the implants 7 years ago, so I am worried what they will look without the implants. The Dr I saw in Marina Del Ray said I would probably be a full A, small B. But at least I will be my natural self. I can’t wait to find a surgeon and have them out – the sooner the better! I have found this site so helpful, and don’t think I would have the confidence to go ahead without reading everyone’s journey.

Had another appointment with a surgeon in Valencia...

3 May 2012

Had another appointment with a surgeon in Valencia who quoted $3800, a little different to $7500 quoted by the surgeon in Marina Del Ray! Turns out I have capsular contracture in both breasts - they definately have to come out.

Wow - things have moved pretty quickly. I am...

4 May 2012

Wow - things have moved pretty quickly. I am booked in for surgery on the 8th. I am nervous about what the results, but I am looking forward to being me again! Will post pics and update when I can.

Well surgery went well, I went in at 11am and was...

10 May 2012

Well surgery went well, I went in at 11am and was back on the road to home by 1pm! I am glad to have the implants are out. However was disappointed to find out the my original surgeon put in Silicone implants and not Saline implants as we discussed! Lucky they didn't rupture.

I have been following doctors orders and taking it easy, even though I feel great, I don't want to over do it and end up with an infection! Took pain medication the first day but haven't needed any today.

I am a little nervous about the result. My breast are certainly a little saggy. They look ok from the side but they have a slight ridge at the front. This looks awful - you can't see in the front photo yet as still have the stitches covered - will post photos next week after stitches are out. The ridge could be some swelling and from the stitches. My doctor removed the implant from the original scar and it was a little higher than he would have liked. I am straight into underwire to try and give the breast some shape and hopefully the ridge will re-shape - it is only day 2 following the operation so I guess I will have to wait and see! Overall it is definately worth it.

So its been 2 weeks since my explant surgery. I...

24 May 2012

So its been 2 weeks since my explant surgery. I originally went to Victoria's Secret to be measured for bras and had 3 different girls measure 3 different cup sizes (A, then B then C). I then went to a lingerie shop, and the lady who measured me, estimated correctly before measuring what size I would be. She had me take off my off my top and bra to measure (said that was the best way to get the right cup size) - Victoria's Secret measured in clothes so could have been why they suggested 3 different sizes. They suggested great bras at the lingerie shop, that fit me well. Some brands do run smaller or larger so it can be a little hit and miss - I found you have to try a few different style bras to see what is best for your breast shape.

I have posted some pics that show the ridge I've been talking about and one holding my shoulders back (the ridge seems to less prominent), one showing the stitches and a bra shot just to show how they look now.

The ridge looks different just after I take off my bra at night (there is less of a ridge) or if I hold my shoulders back - but I certainly can't walk around like that everywhere - lol!

Anyway very happy with my decision, and my husband loves them, I guess that's all that matters. x

Dr Lussier and staff were excellent. Made me feel very comfortable. Dr Lussier rang the evening before surgery, the afternoon and evening following my surgery, and also rang the day after my surgery to check my progress. He also gives his home number in case of emergency. He was very professional but also very caring and concerned for your well being. I am sure I made the right decision in choosing Dr Lussier as my surgeon!